I’m French. Here's What French Women Actually Wear
Lessons from over three years of living in France (as a Franco-American).
Before I moved to France, I thought I had a pretty good idea of how French women dressed.
We’ve all seen the stereotypes:
Striped shirts, trench coats, red lipstick, a baguette under one arm.
Done, right?
But after three years of actually living here, I’ve realized that while some of the clichés are accurate, the real French wardrobe is much more nuanced.
French style is about knowing what works for your body type and wearing it with confidence.
And yes, French women really do wear ballet flats. I basically live in my Repettos (best investment EVER).
So if you're curious about what French women actually wear day-to-day, here’s what I’ve learned, along with a few shoppable picks that get the vibe just right.
1. Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are back with a vengeance, but here in France, they never really left. The key to nailing flats like a French woman?
Choosing styles that feel elevated: leather over synthetic, almond toe over round, and minimalist over flashy.
And if you want to add something special to your outfits, leopard flats are really popular among French influencers right now.
Shop the Look:
2. The Everyday Button-Up
The button-up shirt is a cornerstone of the French wardrobe. And for good reason: It’s SO versatile and chic.
The fit you choose really depends on the look you’re going for, but I personally prefer looser-fitting cotton or linen button-ups, especially in the summer. White is classic, but blue is also a great choice.
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3. Simple, Well-Cut Jeans
French women aren’t obsessed with denim trends. With that said, they do love well-fitting straight-leg or slightly flared jeans in classic washes: High-waisted, ankle-length, and never distressed.
I love how @juliettemalerbi styled hers with a well-fitted t-shirt for a simple look. This is what French style is all about.
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4. Cute Sneakers
The real unsung hero of the French wardrobe is the sneaker. But don’t mistake them for gym shoes. They’re fashion sneakers and are usually worn with jeans or dresses (and they’re really comfortable too).
Two very popular brands here are Veja and New Balance. Both are great, but my French fiancé and I really like New Balance.
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5. Delicate Everyday Jewelry
Forget statement necklaces—French women tend to wear dainty, understated jewelry that goes with everything. Think gold hoops, thin stacking rings, or a simple pendant necklace. It’s all about subtlety and refinement. I personally love wearing pearl drop earrings like the ones below because they’re lightweight and just so elegant.
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6. A Timeless Trench (Yes, the Cliché Is True)
The trench coat is as much a staple as the movies suggest, but what I didn’t expect is how casually French women wear them. Tossed over jeans and a tee, layered over a dress (my personal favorite), or worn open with sneakers—you really can tailor them to your unique style.
Shop the Look:
Final Thoughts
The biggest lesson I’ve learned about dressing like a French woman?
Less is more.
But also? Better is more, too.
The focus is on quality, fit, and feeling like yourself.
It’s about finding the pieces you’ll actually wear—again and again—and wearing them with confidence.
Living in France has taught me that style doesn’t have to be complicated.
Sometimes, all you need is the right pair of jeans, a great shirt, and the kind of shoes that make you feel like a French girl wandering around Paris.
What’s your favorite item on this list? I’d love to know.
Xoxo,
Luba
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